# Algebra -w. Fractions

• Mar 30th 2010, 08:35 PM
KATrandom
Algebra -w. Fractions
I've been working on this question for about an hour now, there's probably a really simple solution... I just can't find it. (Crying)

here it is,

b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

thank you, KATrandom

EDIT: ok so for some reason when I post this the 2 comes to connect to the 4 when it should be under b - 1, sorry 'bout that, they just don't want to be seperated (Worried)
• Mar 31st 2010, 01:32 AM
amul28
b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

k first cross multiply
n then take all d terms to one side n simplify
n then u can find 'b'
2b+6=4b-4
2b-10=0
b=5
• Mar 31st 2010, 01:52 AM
HallsofIvy
It is slightly simpler just to multiply on both sides by 4. Since 2 divides 4, that clears both fractions.
• Mar 31st 2010, 06:10 AM
amul28
ya ur correct....could do that either
• Mar 31st 2010, 06:20 AM
Prove It
Quote:

Originally Posted by KATrandom
I've been working on this question for about an hour now, there's probably a really simple solution... I just can't find it. (Crying)

here it is,

b + 3 = b - 1
_____ _____
4 2

thank you, KATrandom

EDIT: ok so for some reason when I post this the 2 comes to connect to the 4 when it should be under b - 1, sorry 'bout that, they just don't want to be seperated (Worried)

Another alternative is the get a common denominator:

$\frac{b + 3}{4} = \frac{b - 1}{2}$

$\frac{b + 3}{4} = \frac{2(b - 1)}{4}$.

Now since the denominators are equal, so must be the numerators.

$b + 3 = 2(b - 1)$

$b + 3 = 2b - 2$

$b + 5 = 2b$

$b = 5$.
• Mar 31st 2010, 07:23 PM
KATrandom
thanks :D
thanks guys, helps a lot, a little confusing but thanks :D